Cost Estimates Of Rutgers Merger Climb

The pending realignment of New Jersey's university system will cost a lot more than was projected just seven months ago.

Rutgers president Robert Barchi told a state Senate committee today the merger cost could hit $75 million — 50 percent more than the highest estimate given when the overhaul was being considered in May.

The consolidation will combine Rutgers with most of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and partner it with Rowan University.